What are colon polyps?
Colon polyps are small clumps of extra tissue that grow inside the large intestine, also called the colon. Most polyps are benign, which means they are not cancer. But over time, some large polyps can become cancerous.
Who gets colon polyps?
Anyone can get polyps, but you may be more likely to get them if
•you are over 50
•you have had polyps before
•someone in your family has had polyps or colon cancer
•you eat a lot of fatty foods
•you smoke or drink alcohol
•you don’t exercise
•you are overweight
How will I know if I have colon polyps?
Most small polyps don’t cause symptoms. You may not know you have polyps until your doctor checks for them.
But some people do have symptoms, like
•bleeding from the anus, which can leave blood on underwear or toilet paper
•constipation or diarrhea that lasts more than a week
•blood in the stool
Should I be tested for colon polyps?
Talk with your doctor about getting tested for polyps if
•you have symptoms
•you are 50 years old or older
•someone in your family has had polyps or colon cancer
How are colon polyps treated?
Doctors can usually remove polyps during a colonoscopy—the procedure used to check for colon polyps. Sometimes, polyps are removed through an operation.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Colon cancer risks: High-fat diet, family history play role
Cancers of the colon and rectum will affect one of 17 people. These cancers of the lower digestive tract are the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States and Europe. Colorectal cancers are treatable if detected in the early stages. Experts recommend screening for colon cancer beginning at age 50 and screening by age 45 for those with a family history of cancer or those of African-American heritage.
Current screening tests include annual testing of the stool for blood and colonoscopy. Colonoscopy involves using a scope with a tiny camera to look at the lining of the large intestine.
Researchers in Germany are also working on a new blood test that may help find colon cancer. The lining of the intestinal tract can develop small pre-cancerous growths called polyps which can usually be removed during a screening colonoscopy. If these polyps are not removed, they can become cancerous.
Risk factors for developing colon cancer are:
•Family history of colon cancer or colon polyps.
•Low-fiber, high-fat diet. Colorectal cancers are associated with a diet high in fat and calories that lacks enough fiber or roughage. Add more fruits and vegetables and whole grains to your daily diet. Limit fried and fatty foods. Cut back on added fats such as butter, margarine, salad dressing, mayonnaise, gravies and sauces.
•A sedentary lifestyle. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk for colon cancer. Experts recommend daily activity of at least one hour. Walking, biking, swimming, chair aerobics and most sports are great.
•Diabetes and obesity. Insulin resistance and excess weight increase the risk of developing colon cancer and the risk of death from it.
•Smoking and alcohol use.
•Inflammatory intestinal conditions. Chronic intestinal problems like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can increase risk.
•Older age. About 90 percent of all colon cancer occurs in people over age 50.
Many people do not experience any unusual symptoms. Make an appointment to see your health care provider if you notice any change in your bowel habits that lasts more than two weeks, blood in your stool or persistent abdominal cramping or gas. If you have any unplanned weight loss, weakness or fatigue, get a checkup.
This article is a reprint of
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20090929/COL0803/909290355/1292/health/Colon-cancer-risks--High-fat-diet--family-history-play-role The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News Sep. 29
Current screening tests include annual testing of the stool for blood and colonoscopy. Colonoscopy involves using a scope with a tiny camera to look at the lining of the large intestine.
Researchers in Germany are also working on a new blood test that may help find colon cancer. The lining of the intestinal tract can develop small pre-cancerous growths called polyps which can usually be removed during a screening colonoscopy. If these polyps are not removed, they can become cancerous.
Risk factors for developing colon cancer are:
•Family history of colon cancer or colon polyps.
•Low-fiber, high-fat diet. Colorectal cancers are associated with a diet high in fat and calories that lacks enough fiber or roughage. Add more fruits and vegetables and whole grains to your daily diet. Limit fried and fatty foods. Cut back on added fats such as butter, margarine, salad dressing, mayonnaise, gravies and sauces.
•A sedentary lifestyle. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk for colon cancer. Experts recommend daily activity of at least one hour. Walking, biking, swimming, chair aerobics and most sports are great.
•Diabetes and obesity. Insulin resistance and excess weight increase the risk of developing colon cancer and the risk of death from it.
•Smoking and alcohol use.
•Inflammatory intestinal conditions. Chronic intestinal problems like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis can increase risk.
•Older age. About 90 percent of all colon cancer occurs in people over age 50.
Many people do not experience any unusual symptoms. Make an appointment to see your health care provider if you notice any change in your bowel habits that lasts more than two weeks, blood in your stool or persistent abdominal cramping or gas. If you have any unplanned weight loss, weakness or fatigue, get a checkup.
This article is a reprint of
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20090929/COL0803/909290355/1292/health/Colon-cancer-risks--High-fat-diet--family-history-play-role The time or date displayed reflects when an article was added to Google News Sep. 29
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